Understanding how primate brains process visual information and make decisions

Research Project 2 - Internal state dynamics of primate perception and decision-making

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10911107

This study looks at how the brain processes what we see by observing how monkeys' brains work when they do tricky visual tasks, helping us learn more about how we all make decisions based on what we see.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10911107 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural circuits in the primary visual cortex of primates and how they interact with other brain regions during challenging visual tasks. By using advanced experimental tools, the researchers aim to measure and manipulate neural responses in real-time while the macaques perform visual discrimination tasks. The study focuses on how these neural responses encode visual information and how fluctuations in internal brain states affect decision-making processes. The findings could enhance our understanding of perception and behavior in primates, which may have implications for human cognition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would be individuals with conditions affecting visual perception or decision-making processes.

Not a fit: Patients with no visual processing issues or those not affected by cognitive disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of visual processing and decision-making, potentially informing treatments for cognitive disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding neural mechanisms of perception and decision-making in animal models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.